Jose Mourinho's second spell at Real Madrid got off to a winning start, though it required a 90th-minute goal from debutant Carlos Espi to seal a 2-1 victory at Espanyol in their LaLiga opener. The late drama was vintage Mourinho, and it kept his record of winning on debut intact, but the fact that Madrid were pushed so hard by Espanyol underlined the work still ahead for the returning manager.

Off the pitch, Mourinho has wasted no time in making his presence felt. He publicly defended Vinicius Junior, calling out what he described as a "bullying" culture directed at the Brazilian from opponents and fans alike. He also raised eyebrows by admitting he did not specifically request the club's record signing, Yan Diomande, despite the 19-year-old winger arriving for a reported €140 million. Diomande himself has spoken with genuine enthusiasm about the move, saying he would "die" for his manager, though external comparisons with Barcelona's Lamine Yamal are already framing the pressure on the teenager.

The squad carries a significant injury burden, with Rodrygo, Eder Militao, Ferland Mendy, and Endrick among those currently sidelined. Chelsea are also reportedly exploring a move for Eduardo Camavinga before the transfer window closes, which could add further strain to a midfield already relying on new arrival Bernardo Silva to provide experience alongside Jude Bellingham.

Real Madrid sit sixth in the early LaLiga table with three points from one game. Real Sociedad visit the Bernabeu on Wednesday, giving Mourinho an early home test to build on Saturday's win.